Former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Saturday, May 27 called on President-elect Asiwaju Bola Tinubu to unite all Nigerians irrespective of religion, tribe, political and other affiliations.
Uhuru was speaking during an event, themed Deepening Democracy For Development, in Abuja, Nigeria when he pointed out the importance of democracy in spurring development in African countries.
"I speak to you as a brother and an elder statesman in leadership. The contest is now over, and the hard work of building a prosperous and unified Nigeria begins," he stated.
Acknowledging the President-elect's task once he assumes office, Uhuru urged Tinubu to transcend an election's tactical politics and become Nigeria's vision bearer.
"I feel the three most fundamental issues that are easily weaponized to the detriment of our democratic growth. The first is negative ethnicity or tribalism, followed by religion, and lastly, economic greed," Kenyatta stated.
Uhuru explained that if the continent addressed these issues, it would begin to harness its mineral wealth, agricultural potential, and abundant human capital to propel the people's well-being.
He added that it would also strengthen the continent's voice in the global community of Nations.
The former Head of State shared his experience as president for two terms, where he acknowledged the successes, failures, and opportunities of embracing democracy.
He also explained the need for addressing the root causes of conflict within the continent and African countries for the continent's development.
"I encourage you to surround yourself with the voices of those who will counterbalance the hardliners that feel entitled to a piece of your office.
“You will lose nothing and gain everything from reaching out across political, ethnic, and religious lines to those who may feel aggrieved by your victory in one way or another. Allow them to exhale and to be a part of your vision for a greater Nigeria," he encouraged the President-Elect.
The former Head of State congratulated the people of Nigeria for holding peaceful elections, overlooking the challenges, and embracing the lessons from a maturing democracy.
Furthermore, he commended all the contestants for expressing their political differences within the provided framework of constitutional order urging them to shun divisive politics and embrace finding strength in their diversities.
The outgoing President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, noted that democracy was not merely a system of governance but a way of life that requires active participation, inclusivity, and relentless pursuit of justice and fairness.
Also present was Vice President-elect Kashim Shettima, Deputy Speaker of the Nigeria National Assembly, Ahmed Idris, among other dignitaries.
The Presidential Inauguration Lecture was part of the activities organized to commemorate Nigeria's Seventh consecutive civilian transition.
Kenya's Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi represented President William Ruto at the inauguration of Tinubu.
